National Telescope national telescope newspaper
Former U.S. President Donald Trump has once again announced plans to withdraw the United States from the World Health Organization (WHO), sparking global debate about the implications of such a decision.
This move is reminiscent of Trump’s initial attempt to cut ties with the health agency in 2020, during the COVID-19 pandemic.
The executive order, signed during his second term, criticizes WHO for its “mishandling of the COVID-19 pandemic” and what Trump described as its inability to remain independent of political influence. “The United States is being ripped off,” Trump said, referencing the country’s financial contributions to WHO compared to other member nations.
Nigerian Perspective on Global Health Cooperation
Trump’s decision has been met with global backlash, including from health experts who warn of its implications for worldwide health. Dr. Ashish Jha, a former White House COVID-19 response coordinator, stated that withdrawing from WHO would weaken international efforts to address health crises. “This creates a vacuum that China will likely fill, increasing its influence globally,” he added.
For Nigeria, a country that has benefited significantly from WHO’s support in combating diseases like polio and malaria, this move raises concerns.
Dr. Osagie Ehanire, Nigeria’s Minister of Health, emphasized that “the WHO’s technical and financial support has been vital in strengthening our health systems and addressing outbreaks.”
Why WHO Matters
Founded in 1948, WHO has played a key role in global health milestones, including the eradication of smallpox and near-eradication of polio. It works in over 150 countries, providing critical support during health emergencies.
In Nigeria, WHO was instrumental in controlling the 2014 Ebola outbreak and continues to support the fight against tuberculosis and HIV/AIDS.
“If America withdraws, countries like Nigeria may face delays in accessing essential funding and technical expertise,” warned Lawrence Gostin, a global health law professor at Georgetown University.
Trump’s Financial Concerns
Trump has repeatedly criticized the financial structure of WHO, claiming the U.S. contributes disproportionately—about $500 million annually, compared to China’s $40 million.
While these figures are accurate, experts argue the contributions reflect the U.S.’s leadership role. “Health crises don’t respect borders,” said Devi Sridhar, Chair of Global Public Health at the University of Edinburgh. “America’s withdrawal could hurt its own interests.”
A Nigerian Health Expert’s Warning
Dr. Ibrahim Mustapha, a Lagos-based public health specialist, noted that Trump’s decision could hinder the fight against diseases in low-income countries. “Without U.S. support, WHO may struggle to provide vaccines and health supplies to Africa,” he said.
The Path Forward
While the withdrawal process takes a year to finalize, its effects could be felt immediately. WHO has already requested $1.5 billion to address 42 ongoing health emergencies globally. Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, WHO Director-General, expressed regret over Trump’s decision, saying, “For over seven decades, WHO and the U.S. have worked together to save lives. This decision risks reversing years of progress.”
For Nigeria, the message is clear: stronger regional cooperation may be necessary to cushion the potential fallout of America’s withdrawal. “The world is interconnected,” Dr. Mustapha concluded. “No nation can tackle global health challenges alone.”
